Credit for Prior Learning

Cog wheel inside of a head with equals symbol to graduation cap on stack of coins

What is Credit for Prior Learning?

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) lets you earn college credit for things you already know, knowledge you’ve partly gained, or new areas you’re interested in exploring – all based on experiences outside the classroom. You can earn CPL at any point during your time as a student at SPS, not just at the beginning.

Why does it matter to you?

SAVE MONEY
GRADUATE FASTER
BOOST YOUR RESUME

CPL Myths vs. Reality

MYTH: You can only get credit for things you already know
- REALITY: CPL can be used for things you already know, what you partly know (with a bit more study), or even new areas you choose to learn.
MYTH: CPL is too hard to earn
- REALITY: SPS students, just like you, earn CPL credit every semester. With so many flexible options, CPL is more accessible than you think.
MYTH: CPL costs hundreds of dollars
- REALITY: Many CPL options are low-cost or even free. Some options cost as little as $5, and the majority cost less than $100 for 3 or more credits.

Ways to Earn CPL:

Transfer Credits: Bachelor’s degree candidates are eligible to transfer up to 105 academic credits from previous educational institutions.
Portfolio Evaluation: Available to undergraduate CUNY SPS students who complete a one-time mandatory 3 credit pathways course.
Exams: Available to students who take approved college-level exams in various subjects for credit.
Non-Collegiate Learning: Available to students with evaluated certificates, licenses, or trainings completed outside of college.

Want more in-depth information about these options? Click here.

The credit predictor tool from CAEL may help students identify whether prior learning from military, workplace, or volunteer experiences may qualify for college credit. It is also a a great way to explore your options and connect with the CPL department to build a CPL plan that fits your goals.

The Credit for Prior Learning Experience

For adult learners, college should not be “one size fits all.” CUNY SPS grad Yasmeen Mohammed explains how Credit for Prior Learning accelerated her bachelor’s degree completion by allowing her to earn credit for college-level learning acquired through her extensive work experience.

After graduating a semester early, Yasmeen is poised for career advancement as the country reopens.

To find out more about credit for prior learning at CUNY SPS, please contact us at (646) 664-8590. Prospective students and applicants may schedule a meeting with an academic advisor to obtain an unofficial credit evaluation for an undergraduate degree program.

CUNY SPS is a member institution of the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), dedicated to advancing educational and career opportunities for adult learners.

CUNY Transfer Explorer

CUNY Transfer Explorer, also known as CUNY TREX, is a powerful tool designed to help transfer students navigate the transfer credit process with ease. By using TREX, students can easily access information on how their previous college coursework, including Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Exams and Trainings/Credentials, may transfer to CUNY SPS. Students can view CPL opportunities that may qualify for transfer credit and the corresponding CUNY SPS equivalency. Discover how CUNY TREX can enhance your transfer experience and help you achieve your academic goals by visiting the official CUNY Transfer Explorer website.

FAQs

Am I eligible for CPL?

Any undergraduate student is eligible for CPL if they have room in their degree program to accept additional credit.

When can I start earning CPL credit?

You can begin CPL options, such as exams, certifications, trainings etc., at any time, even before applying to SPS. For example, you might have taken an AP exam in high school, received military training, or earned a professional certification. However, CPL credit can only be transcripted once you’re officially enrolled as an undergraduate student at SPS. After enrollment, eligible CPL can be reviewed and applied to your academic record.

What is the deadline for completing CPL methods?

CPL is not tied to semester dates, so you can start as soon as you become a student or even during the application process. The only firm deadline is that all CPL methods must be completed and submitted before the graduation application deadline of your final semester.

To stay on track, we recommend completing your CPL options before your last semester. This gives you time to adjust if an option becomes unavailable, an exam is harder than expected, or your portfolio doesn’t earn credit. This can help ensure you can still take the necessary courses and graduate on time.

Is there a fee to place CPL credit onto my transcript?

No. CUNY SPS does not charge a fee to add accepted CPL credit to your transcript.

Can CPL impact future studies, like graduate school?

It may. Some graduate programs require specific required undergraduate courses with letter grades. If you’re considering CPL for one of those courses, it’s worth checking the requirements of the programs you’re interested in. In some cases, taking the course for a grade may be a better option than using CPL. Talk to your advisor, the CPL department or your program department to decide what’s best for your goals.

Is there a limit to how many CPL credits I can earn?

Yes. You can earn up to 45 credits through CPL options, exams, portfolios, and non-collegiate learning.

However, CPL and transfer credits combined cannot exceed 105 credits toward your degree. Additionally, all students must complete at least 15 credits at SPS to meet the residency requirements.

In exceptional cases, you may request CPL credit beyond the 45 credit limit.

If you’re unsure of your options or need help finalizing a plan, the Experiential Learning Department can help review your options and create a plan that works for your goals. Contact them at PLA @sps.cuny.edu.

How do I get started with earning CPL credit?

Start by checking Degree Works in CUNYfirst to see which courses you still need to complete your degree.

If you’re unsure which CPL options might work for you, reach out to the Experiential Learning Department for guidance.
Email: PLA@sps.cuny.edu